1986 Ford Escort vs. 2002 Subaru Outback
To start off, 2002 Subaru Outback is newer by 16 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1986 Ford Escort. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1986 Ford Escort would be higher. At 2,457 cc (4 cylinders), 2002 Subaru Outback is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Subaru Outback (154 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 22 more horse power than 1986 Ford Escort. (132 HP @ 5750 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2002 Subaru Outback should accelerate faster than 1986 Ford Escort. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Subaru Outback weights approximately 410 kg more than 1986 Ford Escort. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2002 Subaru Outback is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1986 Ford Escort. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2002 Subaru Outback will offer significantly more control. With that said, do keep in mind that many other factors such as speed and the wear on your tires can also have significant impact on traction and control. Let's talk about torque, 2002 Subaru Outback (224 Nm @ 3600 RPM) has 44 more torque (in Nm) than 1986 Ford Escort. (180 Nm @ 2750 RPM). This means 2002 Subaru Outback will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1986 Ford Escort. 2002 Subaru Outback has automatic transmission and 1986 Ford Escort has manual transmission. 1986 Ford Escort will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2002 Subaru Outback will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1986 Ford Escort | 2002 Subaru Outback | |
| Make | Ford | Subaru |
| Model | Escort | Outback |
| Year Released | 1986 | 2002 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1608 cc | 2457 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | boxer |
| Horse Power | 132 HP | 154 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5750 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 180 Nm | 224 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2750 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 80 mm | 99.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 79.5 mm | 79 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1080 kg | 1490 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4070 mm | 4730 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1840 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1360 mm | 1550 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2660 mm |
